Which Specialist Should My Dad See for His ENT Symptoms?

Q: Which Specialist Should My Dad See for His ENT Symptoms?

Hello Ms. <br>Joice： A deviated septum can lead to nasal congestion and headaches. <br>Symptoms of nasopharyngeal carcinoma include nosebleeds and hard lumps in the neck. <br>A deviated septum can be corrected surgically and is not hereditary. <br>Nasopharyngeal carcinoma require

Which specialty outpatient department should I visit?

My father is 51 years old and often experiences nasal congestion, headaches, fatigue, a burning sensation in his esophagus, and a feeling of something stuck in his throat.
He heard from elders that he had an unknown incurable disease in his childhood, frequently suffered from nosebleeds and fevers, and was saved by a certain traditional Chinese medicine remedy.
A few years ago, he visited an otolaryngologist due to a cold, and the doctor mentioned that he has a deviated septum with a protrusion.
In the past year, his weight has dropped from 80 kg to 72 kg, and he feels that something is wrong, worrying whether his childhood illness might be recurring (additionally, his grandfather died of leukemia and his uncle died of nasopharyngeal cancer).
Which specialty should he consult for examination?

Joice, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/09/24

Dr. Cai Zhenggu reply Otolaryngology

Hello Ms.
Joice: A deviated septum can lead to nasal congestion and headaches.
Symptoms of nasopharyngeal carcinoma include nosebleeds and hard lumps in the neck.
A deviated septum can be corrected surgically and is not hereditary.
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma requires radiation therapy and has a genetic predisposition.
Based on your description, your father's condition falls within the scope of otolaryngology.
You are welcome to visit my clinic for a detailed examination.

Reply Date: 2001/09/24

More Info

Based on the symptoms and medical history you've provided regarding your father, it is essential to approach his situation with care and thoroughness. Given his age of 51 and the symptoms he is experiencing—such as nasal congestion, headaches, fatigue, and sensations of heat in the esophagus and throat—there are several specialists he should consider consulting.

1. Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist: Since your father has a history of nasal issues, including a deviated septum and recurrent nosebleeds, the first step should be to revisit an ENT specialist. An ENT can perform a comprehensive examination of his nasal passages, throat, and ears to assess any structural abnormalities or infections that may be contributing to his symptoms. They can also evaluate the potential for any underlying conditions, especially given his family history of serious illnesses.

2. Allergist/Immunologist: If the ENT specialist rules out structural issues, it may be beneficial for your father to see an allergist. Chronic nasal congestion and headaches can often be linked to allergies or sinusitis. An allergist can conduct tests to determine if your father has any allergies that could be exacerbating his symptoms and recommend appropriate treatments, such as antihistamines or allergy shots.

3. Gastroenterologist: The sensation of heat in the esophagus and throat could indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other gastrointestinal issues. A gastroenterologist can evaluate these symptoms, possibly through an endoscopy or other diagnostic tests, to determine if there is an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.

4. Oncologist: Given your father's family history of blood cancer and nasopharyngeal cancer, it may also be prudent to consult an oncologist, especially if the ENT or gastroenterologist finds any suspicious lesions or abnormalities during their examinations. Early detection is crucial in managing any potential malignancies.

5. Primary Care Physician (PCP): Lastly, your father should maintain regular check-ups with his primary care physician. The PCP can coordinate care among the specialists, monitor his overall health, and provide referrals as necessary. They can also perform routine blood tests to check for any abnormalities that could indicate underlying health issues.

In summary, your father should start by seeing an ENT specialist to address his nasal and throat symptoms. Depending on the findings, he may then be referred to an allergist, gastroenterologist, or oncologist for further evaluation. It is crucial to act promptly, especially considering his concerning family medical history and the recent weight loss. Encourage your father to seek medical attention as soon as possible to ensure a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment.

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